(August 25, 2010) The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation to determine if fuel tanks in more than 3 million Jeep Grand Cherokees pose a fire hazard.

The probe covers 1993-2004 Grand Cherokees and is in response to a petition filed in October by the Center for Auto Safety.

The investigation will try to determine whether 13 deaths in 10 crashes are associated with the fuel tank.

The nonprofit Center for Auto Safety alleges the Grand Cherokee features a fuel tank that extends below the rear bumper, behind the rear axle, and lacks adequate protection in crashes and rollovers. The tank's fuel filler neck also tears off in crashes, the group contends in a petition to the federal agency.

The preliminary investigation is a first step in determining whether a recall is necessary.